Elegy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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elegy
[ˈɛlɪdʒi ]
Definition
literary
A poem of serious reflection, typically a lament for the dead.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| elegy |
Use 'elegy' when referring to a reflective poem that expresses sorrow for someone who has died. It is often used in a literary or poetic context.
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| lament |
Use 'lament' when expressing deep sorrow or grief about something, often in a more general or public context. It can be a statement, a song, or a poem reflecting sadness or regret.
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| dirge |
A 'dirge' is a slow and mournful song or tune, typically performed at funerals or memorial services. The term is often used in a musical or ceremonial context.
|
| requiem |
A 'requiem' is a mass in the Catholic Church for the repose of the souls of the dead, or a piece of music composed to honor the dead. It is specifically used in a religious or musical context.
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Examples of usage
- The poet composed an elegy in memory of his late wife.
- She recited an elegy at the funeral, capturing the sorrow of all in attendance.
- The elegy expressed the deep sense of loss felt by the entire community.
- The haunting melody of the elegy touched the hearts of all who listened.
- The elegy served as a beautiful tribute to those who had passed away.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'elegy' comes from the Greek word 'elegos,' which referred to a lament or mournful poem.
- In ancient Greece, elegies were often written for soldiers who died in battle, capturing the sadness of loss.
- During the Renaissance, the elegy became a popular form in poetry, expressing personal grief and sorrow.
Literature
- Famous poets, such as John Milton and W.H. Auden, wrote influential elegies that reflect on loss and mourning.
- The elegy form is characterized by a reflective tone, often commencing with a lament and leading to consolation or hope.
- John Keats' 'Ode to a Nightingale' is considered an elegiac poem, blending themes of mourning and the beauty of nature.
Music
- Many songs are written in the elegiac style, reflecting themes of loss and remembrance, such as Eric Clapton's 'Tears in Heaven.'
- Classical music compositions, like Samuel Barber's 'Adagio for Strings,' evoke a deep sense of mourning akin to an elegy.
- In jazz, the elegy often serves as a tribute to deceased musicians, capturing the emotional essence of their legacy.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, elegies are recited at funerals or memorials to honor the deceased and provide closure to the living.
- The act of writing elegies can be a therapeutic process for those grieving, helping to articulate feelings of loss.
- Prominent figures throughout history have been memorialized through elegies, preserving their memory in the collective cultural consciousness.
Modern Usage
- In contemporary literature, elegies can also address broader themes of loss, such as the passing of eras or ideals.
- Social media has transformed how elegies are shared, with people posting tributes to loved ones online, blending personal and communal grief.
- The elegy form has evolved, now often including multimedia elements like video or visual art in memorials.
Origin of 'elegy'
The word 'elegy' originated from the Greek word 'elegeia,' which referred to a mournful or plaintive poem. Elegies have been a common form of poetry throughout history, often used to express grief, sorrow, or remembrance. They are particularly associated with themes of loss, death, and mourning. Elegies can be found in various cultures and literary traditions, from ancient Greek and Latin poetry to modern works. The solemn and reflective nature of elegies continues to resonate with readers and listeners, offering a means to honor and remember the departed.